MELBOURNE PRIDE GUIDE: DIVA
Image: Source: Supplied by Midsumma.
Are you a true runway romantic? Well, the extravagant new fashion exhibition at the Australian Museum of Performing Arts, 鈥楧IVA鈥�, is calling you.
Opening 11 December, this spectacle is a walk-in wardrobe of queer cultural history, where every outfit tells a story. Developed by London鈥檚 Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A), , from exquisite couture to show-stopping stage and screen costumes worn by fashion pioneers like Prince, Lady Gaga, Cher and more.
The exhibition celebrates world-famous divas who鈥檝e reshaped fashion, turning every strut, pose, and look into a statement of fearless style. V&A Senior Curator Kate Bailey explains: 鈥淎t the heart of this exhibition is a story of iconic performers who, with creativity, courage and ambition, have challenged the status quo using their voice and art to redefine and reclaim the diva.鈥�
Standout pieces include Marilyn Monroe鈥檚 fringed black dress from Some Like it Hot (1959), Rihanna鈥檚 jewel-encrusted 鈥楬eavenly Bodies鈥� Met Gala papal ensemble designed by John Galliano for Maison Margiela, and Lady Gaga鈥檚 couture Valentino ballgown from the 2019 Golden Globes.
So pick your most DIVA-worthy outfit, gather your style-obsessed pals, and step into a world of sequins, silhouettes and unapologetic glamour this Midsumma.
DIVA
11 December 2025 – 26 April 2026 | Mon-Fr | 12pm-7pm & Sat-Sun | 10am-7pm
Australian Museum of Performing Arts, Southbank
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